Steroid withdrawal syndrome – A masquerading entity

Abstract

Steroids are commonly used for various chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Abrupt cessation of treatment with corticosteroids leads to steroid withdrawal syndrome (SWS), which can be confused with metabolic encephalopathies, acute cerebrovascular accidents or sepsis by the treating physician. We report two patients of SWS who presented with varied clinical features, that constituted a diagnostic challenge to the physician.

Keywords

• cortisol
• eosinophilia
• steroid withdrawal syndrome
• steroids